Directions
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper until well coated.
Wrap with Bacon: Take a half-strip of bacon and wrap it around each shrimp, securing it with a toothpick.
Grill the Shrimp: Place the bacon-wrapped shrimp on the grill. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bacon is crispy and the shrimp are opaque.
Apply BBQ Sauce: Brush the shrimp with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling. Allow the sauce to caramelize slightly.
Serve: Remove from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Mixing bowls
Grill or grill pan
Tongs
Basting brush
Toothpicks
Tips and Shortcuts
Pre-cook Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, you can partially cook the bacon in the microwave or skillet before wrapping the shrimp. This ensures the bacon gets fully crispy without overcooking the shrimp.
Marinate Shrimp: For deeper flavor, marinate the shrimp in the olive oil and spice mixture for 30 minutes before grilling.
Use Skewers: Instead of toothpicks, thread several shrimp onto skewers for easier handling on the grill.
Variations and Recipe Swaps
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice mix for a spicy kick.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix some honey or maple syrup into the BBQ sauce for a sweet and spicy glaze.
Herbed Bacon: Sprinkle some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro over the shrimp before serving for a fresh touch.
How to Store Leftovers
Place any leftover BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.
Food and Drink Pairings
These BBQ Bacon Wrapped Shrimp pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and drinks. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cold, refreshing beer like a pilsner or IPA would complement the smoky, savory flavors perfectly.
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